Axion Dark Matter Experiment: Detailed design and operations
R Khatiwada1, D Bowring2, A S Chou3
1Department of Physics, Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, Illinois 60616, USA and Fermilab Quantum Institute, Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, Batavia, Illinois 60510, USA.
The Review of Scientific Instruments
|January 1, 2022
Summary
The Axion Dark Matter Experiment achieved unprecedented sensitivity in searching for axions, a dark matter candidate, using advanced haloscope technology. This breakthrough pushes the boundaries of dark matter detection in the sub-meV mass range.
Area of Science:
- Particle Physics
- Cosmology
- Astrophysics
- Experimental Physics
Background:
- Dark matter constitutes a significant portion of the universe's mass, and axions are leading theoretical candidates.
- Previous axion searches have been limited by experimental sensitivity and the mass range explored.
- The Dine-Fischler-Srednicki-Zhitnisky (DFSZ) model provides a theoretical framework for axion interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct the most sensitive search to date for dark matter axions in the 2.66–3.1 μeV mass range.
- To detail the technological advancements enabling this unprecedented sensitivity.
- To demonstrate the application of novel amplifier technologies and analysis techniques in axion detection.
Main Methods:
- Utilized ultra-low noise haloscope technology, a resonant cavity detector for axions.
- Implemented state-of-the-art quantum-noise-limited amplifiers, including a tunable microstrip superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) amplifier and a Josephson parametric amplifier.
- Employed a dilution refrigerator for cryogenic operation and advanced analysis tools for system noise characterization.
Main Results:
- Successfully completed two science runs (1A and 1B), achieving the highest sensitivity for axion dark matter in the 2.66–3.1 μeV mass range.
- Demonstrated the effectiveness of quantum-noise-limited amplifiers in pushing experimental sensitivity.
- Characterized system noise temperatures with novel analysis tools, crucial for interpreting results.
Conclusions:
- The experiment represents the most sensitive axion search to date in the specified mass range.
- Technological advancements in haloscope design and quantum amplifiers are key to future dark matter searches.
- The results place stringent constraints on axion properties, informing dark matter models.
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